A few tips from teachers to parents

Catherine Flynn,

secondary teacher, GEMS Founders School > How to prepare them: As a teacher, I would advise parents to encourage their children to have a relaxing and calm evening the night before they return to school. Also, parents could ask their children what they are looking forward to in thenext academic period This should encourage students to reflect and be mindful of their actions moving forward. > Get them back to learning: Immediately engaging students after the holidays is pivotal to ensuring they are inspired and ready to learn. I think it is essential to make sure classroom displays are updated. This allows students to clearly see that we are ready to study a new topic. .

Charlotte Sizer,

FS Teacher, GEMS Founders School > How to prepare them: It is very important that children get into a routine a few days before they start school. Children should ensure they go to bed early so they aren’t tired. Talking about school is really beneficial especially talking about the positive aspects to make sure they are looking forward to going back. Children could engage in activities similar to those at school at home and bring them in to share with their peers. > Get them back to learning: It is very important to ensure my classroom is very calm on the first day back. The children will most likely come back in feeling very unsettled. It is imperative to make sure our class routine is kept and this is comforting to the children. I am always very happy to see the children after the break and it is important to show them this.

Tia Dixon,

FS2 Class Teacher, GEMS Metropole School > How to prepare them: Ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep; get ready for school together; talk to the child about their feelings about returning to school, remind your child about classroom routines, and reassure any anxieties by talking about the people and activities that they love. > Get them back to learning: When students arrive back they are full of enthusiasm and excitement to share with their teachers and friends the highlights of their holidays. On day one, we provide opportunities for students to share their holiday highlights through a multitude of platforms, including discussions, writing opportunities and class games.